Easter Message
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Exegetical Main Point:
Paul pushes against the claim that there is no resurrection of the dead by showing the devastating consequences of that line of thinking while establishing the victory of the resurrection.
Intro
Intro
Sermon Sticky Point
Without the resurrection of Jesus, we have no hope!
Exegetical Main Point:
On the other hand,
The resurrection of Jesus is our only hope!
Paul pushes against the claim that there is no resurrection of the dead by showing the devastating consequences of that line of thinking while establishing the victory of the resurrection.
Intro
Intro
Sermon Sticky Point
Without the resurrection of Jesus, we have no hope!
YET
Intro
Intro
On the other hand,
The resurrection of Jesus is our only hope.
The resurrection of Jesus is our only hope!
Me
Me
Over the years, I’ve not found Easter to be very meaningful to me. I know, that sounds terrible and I’m not supposed to say such a thing.
It’s not that I don’t logically see the value of what this day represents. Maybe you’re like me where you know its supposed to be important but it doesn’t feel very important to you.
Well after prepping this sermon, I would definitely say it is the most important holiday of the year and I’m believing that more and more.
Today commemorates the most important event in history.
We’re going to be tackling two big questions today that will demonstrate why Easter is such a big deal:
1. What if Jesus never rose from the dead?
On the other hand,
2. What if Jesus actually rose from the dead?
What if Jesus rose from the dead?
Believe it or not, these questions are about the two most important questions you could ever seek to answer. They’re not merely philosophical claims that are interesting to speculate on, but all of history and your eternal destiny hang on them.
Three types of attitudes towards Easter among Christians.
Easter is just another day, we should celebrate Jesus and his resurrection everyday.
What? It’s Easter next week? I know it’s important but I don’t feel like it’s important, I should act like its important.
It’s Resurrection Sunday!!!! The most important holiday of the year!
Maybe you’re like me. You’re in the second group. You know Easter is important but it’s not that meaningful to you. And you go along with it and do your best.
And the more I prepared this message the more I can confidently say,
And the more I prepared this message the more I can confidently say,
Our Tension: Uncover or Create the Tension as a group
Our Tension: Uncover or Create the Tension as a group
Our Tension: Uncover or Create the Tension as a group
Our Tension: Uncover or Create the Tension as a group
The death and resurrection of Jesus is the solution
Why?
What I hope to show you in this message is two sides of a coin:
Without the resurrection of Jesus, we have no hope!
On the other hand,
The resurrection of Jesus is our only hope!
Scope
Scope
This chapter is long, so we’re only going to hit the highlights.
This chapter is long, so we’re only going to hit the highlights.
What if Jesus never rose from the dead?
I also need to clarify that I am not going to be trying to prove the resurrection with evidence, although I will share some later or. I’m mainly highlighting the big two questions I raised earlier:
What if Jesus never rose from the dead?
On the other hand,
What if Jesus actually rose from the dead?
Because depending on how we answer these questions, changes everything.
Text
Text
Outline
Outline
Background
If Christ was not raised it changes everything...
If Christ was raised it changes everything...
How should we live in light of this truth?
13 But if there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised.
Background
Background
About twenty years after the death and resurrection of Jesus, the Apostle Paul wrote a letter to the church that was in Corinth. Corinth was a city in Greece that was full of a diversity of cultures, worldviews, and religions. More similarities to our current context than you would probably expect.
probably in the spring of 54 or 55
The church in Corinth had all kinds of problems but the most central issue was that some false teachers were claiming,
“There is no resurrection of the dead!”
In other words, people don’t come back from the dead. That doesn’t happen. You guys are a bunch of liars or crazy!
Outline
Outline
Outline
Outline
So the Text we’re going to look like pans out like this:
The majority of chapter 15 is Paul breaking down one main point and then explains it:
Paul is going to make a claim
He then responds to the claim, “There is no resurrection of the dead.”
After he claims this truth he then responds to the claim, “There is no resurrection of the dead.”
If there is NO resurrection it changes everything.
If Christ was raised it changes everything...
If Christ was raised it changes everything...
Then we’ll look into what we should do in light of this truth
12 Now if Christ is proclaimed as raised from the dead, how can some of you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? 13 But if there is no resurrection of the dead, then not even Christ has been raised. 14 And if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain. 15 We are even found to be misrepresenting God, because we testified about God that he raised Christ, whom he did not raise if it is true that the dead are not raised. 16 For if the dead are not raised, not even Christ has been raised. 17 And if Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile and you are still in your sins. 18 Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. 19 If in Christ we have hope in this life only, we are of all people most to be pitied. 20 But in fact Christ has been raised from the dead, the firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep. 21 For as by a man came death, by a man has come also the resurrection of the dead. 22 For as in Adam all die, so also in Christ shall all be made alive. 23 But each in his own order: Christ the firstfruits, then at his coming those who belong to Christ. 24 Then comes the end, when he delivers the kingdom to God the Father after destroying every rule and every authority and power. 25 For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet. 26 The last enemy to be destroyed is death. 27 For “God has put all things in subjection under his feet.” But when it says, “all things are put in subjection,” it is plain that he is excepted who put all things in subjection under him. 28 When all things are subjected to him, then the Son himself will also be subjected to him who put all things in subjection under him, that God may be all in all.
This claim is going to be opposed
Then we’ll look into what we should do in light of this truth
Paul is going to show the consequences if his opponents are right
Paul is going to show the beautiful results if Jesus did rise from the dead.
Then we’re going to see some reasons why we know Paul was telling the truth.
I also need to clarify that I am not going to be trying to prove the resurrection with evidence, although I will share some later or. I’m mainly highlighting
The claim
The claim
1 Now I would remind you, brothers, of the gospel I preached to you, which you received, in which you stand, 2 and by which you are being saved, if you hold fast to the word I preached to you—unless you believed in vain.
3 I passed on to you what was most important and what had also been passed on to me. Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said. 4 He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said. 5 He was seen by Peter and then by the Twelve. 6 After that, he was seen by more than 500 of his followers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have died. 7 Then he was seen by James and later by all the apostles. 8 Last of all, as though I had been born at the wrong time, I also saw him.
1 Let me now remind you, dear brothers and sisters, of the Good News I preached to you before. You welcomed it then, and you still stand firm in it. 2 It is this Good News that saves you if you continue to believe the message I told you—unless, of course, you believed something that was never true in the first place. 3 I passed on to you what was most important and what had also been passed on to me. Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said. 4 He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said. 5 He was seen by Peter and then by the Twelve. 6 After that, he was seen by more than 500 of his followers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have died. 7 Then he was seen by James and later by all the apostles.
1 Let me now remind you, dear brothers and sisters, of the Good News I preached to you before. You welcomed it then, and you still stand firm in it. 2 It is this Good News that saves you if you continue to believe the message I told you—unless, of course, you believed something that was never true in the first place. 3 I passed on to you what was most important and what had also been passed on to me. Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said. 4 He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said. 5 He was seen by Peter and then by the Twelve. 6 After that, he was seen by more than 500 of his followers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have died. 7 Then he was seen by James and later by all the apostles. 8 Last of all, as though I had been born at the wrong time, I also saw him.
1 Let me now remind you, dear brothers and sisters, of the Good News I preached to you before. You welcomed it then, and you still stand firm in it. 2 It is this Good News that saves you if you continue to believe the message I told you—unless, of course, you believed something that was never true in the first place. 3 I passed on to you what was most important and what had also been passed on to me. Christ died for our sins, just as the Scriptures said. 4 He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said. 5 He was seen by Peter and then by the Twelve. 6 After that, he was seen by more than 500 of his followers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have died. 7 Then he was seen by James and later by all the apostles. 8 Last of all, as though I had been born at the wrong time, I also saw him.
3 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. 6 Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. 7 Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. 8 Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me.
What is the claim?
There’s good news.
The good news about a historical event that Jesus died and came back to life to rescue everyone who would trust in him
Now we’re going to loop back and unpack more of what that simple statement means but I wanted to highlight that the gospel is not something you do but something that has been done.
the gospel is not something you do but something that has been done.
By someone,
for you,
in history
and its good news for you.
No we’re going to loop back and unpack more of what that simple statement means but I wanted to highlight that the gospel is not something you do but something that has been done. By someone, for you, in history and its news for you.
Let’s not gloss over these events like its just whatever. What Paul is claiming is unusual to say the least…
No we’re going to loop back and unpack more of what that simple statement means but I wanted to highlight that the gospel is not something you do but something that has been done. By someone, for you, in history and its news for you.
Imagine witnessing a man get tortured on the brink of death and then executed in the most gruesome way possible, attending the funeral with the casket open, and then a few days later seeing that same man walk around, eat, and dialogue with you.
3 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures,
1 cor
This was unbelievable for them.
We think, “Oh they were just simple back then and easily tricked into believing in miracles.” But if you understood the Greek and Hebrew worldview, you wouldn’t say that. It was impossible for them to believe such a thing just as it is impossible for us today unless, of course, it really did happen.
Paul knows this so he makes sure we know that this is a historical event.
He mentions witnesses, lots of them:
Scriptures, Peter, the rest of the apostles, and then 500 believers.
4 He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said. 5 He was seen by Peter and then by the Twelve. 6 After that, he was seen by more than 500 of his followers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have died.
4 He was buried, and he was raised from the dead on the third day, just as the Scriptures said. 5 He was seen by Peter and then by the Twelve. 6 After that, he was seen by more than 500 of his followers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have died. 7 Then he was seen by James and later by all the apostles.
1 cor 15:4-
6 After that, he was seen by more than 500 of his followers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have died.
Why does he say, “most are alive?”
Now we’re going to loop back and unpack more of what that simple statement means but I wanted to highlight that the gospel is not something you do but something that has been done. By someone, for you, in history and its news for you.
That is why its so important that it was an actual event that happened is because Christianity is based off of this event of what Christ has done. If you take away the resurrection of Jesus, you take away all of Christianity and as I said earlier, “all hope.”
D. A. Carson Sermon Library What Is the Gospel? (1 Corinthians 15)
a reporter put a question to the then archbishop of Perth who was then primate of the Anglican Church of Australia and asked him, “Suppose we found the tomb of Jesus and we could demonstrate with high, high credibility that Jesus never really did rise from the dead and this was Jesus’ body, what would this do to your Christian faith?” The dear archbishop replied, “Nothing. For I believe Jesus has risen in my heart.”
Imagine witnessing a man get tortured on the brink of death and then executed in the most gruesome way possible, attending the funeral with the casket open, and then a few days later seeing that same man walk around, eat, and dialogue with you.
Because he’s clarifying that this really happened, and those people are still around, go check my sources.
Now that Paul establishes the historicity of Jesus’s resurrection, he addresses what the false teachers were saying. He explores the thought,
What if there is nor resurrection?
If there is NO Resurrection
If there is NO Resurrection
3 For I delivered to you as of first importance what I also received: that Christ died for our sins in accordance with the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures, 5 and that he appeared to Cephas, then to the twelve. 6 Then he appeared to more than five hundred brothers at one time, most of whom are still alive, though some have fallen asleep. 7 Then he appeared to James, then to all the apostles. 8 Last of all, as to one untimely born, he appeared also to me.
12 But tell me this—since we preach that Christ rose from the dead, why are some of you saying there will be no resurrection of the dead? 13 For if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ has not been raised either. 14 And if Christ has not been raised, then all our preaching is useless, and your faith is useless. 15 And we apostles would all be lying about God—for we have said that God raised Christ from the grave. But that can’t be true if there is no resurrection of the dead.
13 For if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ has not been raised either. 14 And if Christ has not been raised, then all our preaching is useless, and your faith is useless. 15 And we apostles would all be lying about God—for we have said that God raised Christ from the grave. But that can’t be true if there is no resurrection of the dead.
13 For if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ has not been raised either.
If you’re saying there’s no resurrection, you are then claiming that Christ was not resurrected. He’ll show shortly how they’re deeply connected.
Everything would be Useless
Everything would be Useless
Paul starts off with three results:
14 And if Christ has not been raised, then all our preaching is useless, and your faith is useless.
To counter this, Paul does not merely cite Old Testament texts that point to the resurrection. Instead, he piles together a list of eyewitnesses to the resurrection. In Paul’s mind, it is possible to possess historical knowledge.
14 And if Christ has not been raised, then all our preaching is useless, and your faith is useless. 15 And we apostles would all be lying about God—for we have said that God raised Christ from the grave. But that can’t be true if there is no resurrection of the dead.
Our preaching is useless
Your faith is useless
And we are lying/misrepresenting God
Look at v. 13,
13 For if there is no resurrection of the dead, then Christ has not been raised either. 14 And if Christ has not been raised, then all our preaching is useless, and your faith is useless. 15 And we apostles would all be lying about God—for we have said that God raised Christ from the grave. But that can’t be true if there is no resurrection of the dead.
I’m sure we can all admit that these are big deals!
Paul shares another terrible result if Christ has not been raised,
FOR
Still in your sins
Still in your sins
17 And if Christ has not been raised, then your faith is useless and you are still guilty of your sins.
AGAIN, if you didn’t catch me before, “your faith is useless!”
You are still guilty of your sins/ still in your sins
What does all this mean?
First,
We should probably define sin?
Sin is rejecting or ignoring God in the world he created, rebelling against him by living without reference to him, not being or doing what he requires in his law resulting in our death and the disintegration of all creation. - New City Catechism
“Sin is rejecting or ignoring God and not being or doing what he requires in his law.”
Sins are actions but its more a heart issue, independence from God and not loving the most valuable being in the universe as we ought to. But preferring to love self.
If we’re honest all of us have sinned. All of us have done things and thought things that we don’t want anyone to know. All of us are guilty of doing wrong and not loving God as we ought to.
“Sin is any act, attitude or thought that is contrary towards God’s will.”
If we’re honest all of us have sinned. All of us have done things and thought things that we don’t want anyone to know. All of us are guilty of doing wrong and not loving God as we ought to.
Well if we’re guilty than the righteous judge of the world, God must judge us. Must condemn us. If not, he’s unjust.
But what does God graciously do about our sin?
He and his son come up with a plan. The Father sends his only son to earth to live the life we ought to have lived and showed us what life is like when man does not reject God’s good rule, no disease, no outcasts, and no brokenness. And Jesus ultimately died on a cross as a substitutionary sacrifice for our behalf.
What that means is that Jesus was treated on the cross as if he did everything wrong we ever did or will do. The stuff we want to bury and make sure no one knows about. Jesus was treated in our place as if he did all of those.
But GOD, in his mercy,
But GOD, in his mercy,
What that means is that Jesus was treated on the cross as if he did everything wrong we ever did or will do. Everything we’re not proud of. The stuff we want to bury and make sure no one knows about. Jesus was treated in our place as if he did all of those.
As a result, Jesus’ life is given to us and
the death we deserve is given to him.
This is the greatest exchange.
He get’s our punishment and we get his goodness and forgiveness.
Why did Jesus have to raise from the dead to free us from sin?
The resurrection of Christ, vindicated his life and death. It was God’s stamp of approval that Jesus’ mission to die for our sins was actually successful. That when Jesus The resurrection makes his sacrifice a triumph. Without the resurrection it’s just a tragedy.
If Christ did not raise from the dead, it’s a sign that his life and death was a failure. That he wasn’t really who he claimed he was. So when Jesus, “It is Finished!” God, said, “Nope!”
On the other hand,
Either he was not the sinless person he claimed to be and so when he died, he actually faced judgement and eternal separation from God.
The result is that there was no sacrifice for our sins. And therefore, the phrase that Christ died for our sins, actually is worthless.
the resurrection of Christ, vindicated his life and death. Jesus was put to death by the Jews because they believed he was a false-messiah. It was God’s stamp of approval that Jesus’ was the savior. His mission to die for our sins was actually successful. The resurrection makes his sacrifice a triumph. Without the resurrection it’s just a tragedy.
Or he might have been free from sin but his attempt to atone for our sin was not approved by God and therefore, stayed dead.
The result again, is that there was no sacrifice for our sins. And therefore, the phrase that Christ died for our sins, actually is worthless.
So when Jesus, “It is Finished!” God, said, “Nope!”
Good Friday is then, failed Friday.
the resurrection of Christ, vindicated his life and death. It was God’s stamp of approval that Jesus’ mission to die for our sins was actually successful. That when Jesus The resurrection makes his sacrifice a triumph. Without the resurrection it’s just a tragedy.
So when Jesus, “It is Finished!” God, said, “Nope!”
It’s the fact that he rose again that God vindicated his life and death. The resurrection makes his sacrifice a triumph. Without the resurrection it’s just a tragedy.
Let’s go back to that phrase, “Still guilty of your sins.”
Would that bother you, still being in your sins?
It should.
It means everything you’ve ever done that shouldn’t have done
and everything you should’ve done and didn’t do
and everything you ever thought upon that was wrong
will be held against you. That your shame and your stains are still on you and will never be washed off.
The Message of 1 Corinthians v. ‘You Are Still in Your Sins’ (15:17)
If Jesus stayed dead, there are only two possible conclusions: either he was not the sinless person everyone thought him to be and his death marked his final separation from God; or he might have been without personal sin, but his attempts to atone for the sin of the world by his death did not meet with divine approval. Either way, we are still in our sins, cut off from God and facing his judgment, like everyone else.
Without the resurrection of Jesus, we have no hope!
YET
The resurrection of Jesus is our only hope.
The resurrection of Jesus is our only hope!
Paul now unpacks a devastating consequence of still being in our sins,
18 In that case, all who have died believing in Christ are lost!
18 In that case, all who have died believing in Christ are lost! 19 And if our hope in Christ is only for this life, we are more to be pitied than anyone in the world.
18 Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished.
18 Then those also who have fallen asleep in Christ have perished. 19 If in Christ we have hope in this life only, we are of all people most to be pitied.
Fallen asleep is a term used in the Bible for those who died. But the writers use the term, “Fallen asleep” instead of died, because those who have put their hope in Christ haven’t really died.
So those who have died and were Christians did just that. Died. And they’re decomposing as we speak and it’s all over for them. No hope for the future, just done.
Paul explores further,
19 And if our hope in Christ is only for this life, we are more to be pitied than anyone in the world.
Why does Paul say that we are more to be pitied than anyone in the world?
Why wouldn’t it be equally as tragic for anyone, whether believer or unbeliever?
Well, you could say that the true Christian spent his whole life laying down their life for the sake of others. That the Christian could have lived a little more life. Could have enjoyed more forbidden pleasures and so forth.
And there is some truth there although I think that is a misunderstanding of what true pleasure is.
And it would also be tragic and a pity that we Christians have believed the greatest lie that has ever been made in the history of the world.
But I think this is fundamentally missing the point of Christianity and the gospel.
And that would be sad.
But do you know what would be saddest about just dying and not being raised to be with Jesus?
The greatest news the gospel has for us is not that we have forgiveness of sins or we get to go to heaven.
What is the most tragic reality
What is the most tragic reality
The greatest news is that we get Christ, forever! We get Him!
Pascal’s Wager
Pascal’s Wager
The gospel is that we did bad, he did good, and we ultimately get him, forever!
And if that is not the greatest news in the world, that you get him, I would encourage you to seriously doubt if you actually have received the gospel.
So that would be the most pitiable reason if Christ did not actually raise from the dead. True Christians believe that they’ve received the greatest treasure EVER. God himself! We get to know and enjoy God forever!
True Christians believe that they’ve received the greatest treasure EVER. God himself! We get to know and enjoy God forever!
So if Christ has not raised, then we are the most to be pitied because we are under the impression we get to spend eternity with the love of our life and we actually don’t.
And if that is not the greatest news in the world, that you get him, I would encourage you to seriously doubt if you actually have received the gospel.
Pascal’s Wager
Without the resurrection of Jesus, we have no hope!
God is, or God is not. Reason cannot decide between the two alternatives
Sum up this section
Sum up this section
A Game is being played where heads or tails will turn up
You must wager (it is not optional)
Let us weigh the gain and the loss in wagering that God does exist. Let us estimate these two chances. If you gain, you gain all; if you lose, you lose nothing
Wager, then, without hesitation that He is.
There is here an infinity of an infinitely happy life to gain, a chance of gain against a finite number of chances of loss, and what you stake is finite. And so our proposition is of infinite force, when there is the finite to stake in a game where there are equal risks of gain and of loss, and the infinite to gain.
But some cannot believe. They should then 'at least learn your inability to believe...' and 'Endeavour then to convince' themselves.
So if Christ was not raised then we won’t be raised. Our faith is in vain. Our preaching is useless. We are still guilty and in our sins. When we die there’s nothing else. And at the end of it all, we don’t get to be with the love of our lives, we get nothing, we believed in a lie, and our life was pointless.
Without the resurrection of Jesus, we have no hope!
BUT look at v. 20
If Christ WAS Raised...
If Christ WAS Raised...
20 But in fact, Christ has been raised from the dead. He is the first of a great harvest of all who have died.
BUT IN FACT, CHRIST HAS BEEN RAISED FROM THE DEAD!
20 But the truth is that Christ has been raised up, the first in a long legacy of those who are going to leave the cemeteries.
And because he was raised from the dead, we can all be raised from the dead. He was the first of many and we who have put our hope in him will follow.
That is why I said,
Without the resurrection of Jesus, we have no hope!
On the other hand,
YET
The resurrection of Jesus is our only hope!
The resurrection of Jesus is our only hope.
20 But the truth is that Christ has been raised up, the first in a long legacy of those who are going to leave the cemeteries.
20 But in fact, Christ has been raised from the dead. He is the first of a great harvest of all who have died. 21 So you see, just as death came into the world through a man, now the resurrection from the dead has begun through another man. 22 Just as everyone dies because we all belong to Adam, everyone who belongs to Christ will be given new life. 23 But there is an order to this resurrection: Christ was raised as the first of the harvest; then all who belong to Christ will be raised when he comes back. 24 After that the end will come, when he will turn the Kingdom over to God the Father, having destroyed every ruler and authority and power. 25 For Christ must reign until he humbles all his enemies beneath his feet. 26 And the last enemy to be destroyed is death. 27 For the Scriptures say, “God has put all things under his authority.” (Of course, when it says “all things are under his authority,” that does not include God himself, who gave Christ his authority.) 28 Then, when all things are under his authority, the Son will put himself under God’s authority, so that God, who gave his Son authority over all things, will be utterly supreme over everything everywhere.
Again, that is why death for the true Christian is called, “sleep.”
Now Paul is writing this and we can wonder if he’s just making all of it up.
Suffering Apostles Prove the Resurrection
Suffering Apostles Prove the Resurrection
Suffering Apostles Prove the Resurrection
Suffering Apostles Prove the Resurrection
Paul wasn’t just saying it without skin in the game. One of the most powerful evidences of the Resurrection is that every apostle who saw the risen Jesus suffered greatly and all but one were killed for their faith in the resurrected Christ.
Like the other apostles who saw the risen Jesus, he suffered greatly.
Let me show you how much Paul believed in this event and then afterward we’ll look at why this is an evidence to the Resurrection, look at v. 30.
30 And why should we ourselves risk our lives hour by hour? 31 For I swear, dear brothers and sisters, that I face death daily. This is as certain as my pride in what Christ Jesus our Lord has done in you. 32 And what value was there in fighting wild beasts—those people of Ephesus—if there will be no resurrection from the dead? And if there is no resurrection, “Let’s feast and drink, for tomorrow we die!”
Truly believing in the Resurrection produces fearlessness and willingness to suffer.
Why do I say that the apostles suffering and death for Jesus is a powerful evidence for Jesus’ resurrection?
Well, we know that lots of people throughout history have died for different causes they believed in. We know of Muslim martyrs that will blow their bodies up in crowds of people because they truly believe they will be rewarded in heaven. However, we believe they’re mistaken.
And yet, what if we’re mistaken? Lots of people are. But you know the people who wouldn’t be mistaken?
The apostles. If anyone would know if Jesus truly rose from the dead, it would be the apostles because they were there. We know of people who die for lies but we don’t know of anyone who dies for a lie they made up and the know is a lie.
Well, they made it up, some would say!
Why?
What gain?
Like I said, we know history that all but one died gruesome deaths and lived impoverished lives. All for a lie?
We know that before Jesus resurrection, they were scared and abandoned him. Something must have shifted to change them and set the on a path to give their entire lives to tell others about the risen Jesus.
Furthermore, we see the early church explode onto the scene in Jerusalem, the very place Jesus was crucified. In a culture that was not looking and hoping for a resurrected messiah. Against all odds, Christianity arose and has spread throughout the world.
What could propel such a a movement?
Good morals? promise of an afterlife? Lots of religions have that.
We can’t go into all the theories, but as i’ve looked at them, the most reasonable reason is that an event occured that changed the course of history!
21 So you see, just as death came into the world through a man, now the resurrection from the dead has begun through another man. 22 Just as everyone dies because we all belong to Adam, everyone who belongs to Christ will be given new life. 23 But there is an order to this resurrection: Christ was raised as the first of the harvest; then all who belong to Christ will be raised when he comes back.
Back to verse 21.
Let’s see one of the greatest victories and results of the resurrection of Christ.
The Defeat of Death
The Defeat of Death
21 So you see, just as death came into the world through a man, now the resurrection from the dead has begun through another man. 22 Just as everyone dies because we all belong to Adam, everyone who belongs to Christ will be given new life.
Let’s continue. Paul lists and order of how everything will go down.
Christ was raised first,
There are two people highlighted here.
then his people will follow,
and then Jesus will defeat all of his enemies.
Adam, the first man, who represents all of humanity and brought death.
Jesus, the savior, who represents all who have put their hope in Him and brings life.
When Adam and Eve chose to rebel against God, death entered into the world. Physical death for sure but also spiritual death, which is ultimately separation from God. Separation from the one you were made for.
And when death entered into the world everything that we know and hold dear was tainted. Was infected with brokenness. And all the world is spiraling downward.
And so without Christ, the one who brings life, everything will eventually just be death for all.
I know that sounds very dark and a huge downer, but that’s reality. Things are truly that terrible.
22 Just as everyone dies because we all belong to Adam, everyone who belongs to Christ will be given new life.
Will synthesize,
So Christ not only defied death himself by rising from the dead, he defeated the sting of death on our behalf since we don’t have to fear death anymore. When Jesus returns he will fully destroy death. There’s a day coming when death will be no more.
The Message of 1 Corinthians i. Its Consequences for the Future (15:20–28)
Paul is thus completely consistent in stressing both the union of believers with Christ in his death and resurrection, and the definite order
I will Synthesize,
David Platt Sermon Archive Because Resurrection Is Real
So when the risen Christ returns, He will fully destroy death. It’s not that He hasn’t already conquered it, in a sense, at His resurrection, but as we all know, death is still a reality in this world. As we’ve talked about, people die. But there’s coming a day when death itself will be no more. The end of this chapter is so triumphant, where Paul writes in verse
51 But let me reveal to you a wonderful secret. We will not all die, but we will all be transformed! 52 It will happen in a moment, in the blink of an eye, when the last trumpet is blown. For when the trumpet sounds, those who have died will be raised to live forever. And we who are living will also be transformed.
51 But let me reveal to you a wonderful secret. We will not all die, but we will all be transformed! 52 It will happen in a moment, in the blink of an eye, when the last trumpet is blown. For when the trumpet sounds, those who have died will be raised to live forever. And we who are living will also be transformed. 53 For our dying bodies must be transformed into bodies that will never die; our mortal bodies must be transformed into immortal bodies.
51 But let me reveal to you a wonderful secret. We will not all die, but we will all be transformed! 52 It will happen in a moment, in the blink of an eye, when the last trumpet is blown. For when the trumpet sounds, those who have died will be raised to live forever. And we who are living will also be transformed. 53 For our dying bodies must be transformed into bodies that will never die; our mortal bodies must be transformed into immortal bodies. 54 Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die, this Scripture will be fulfilled: “Death is swallowed up in victory.
The Timothy Keller Sermon Archive If Christ Was Not Raised (Easter)
If he wasn’t raised then his death was just a noble example of how to suffer, but if he was raised that proves his death actually accomplished something. It actually finished something. It actually secured something. Therefore, it’s not your good works but his death and resurrection which has completely fulfilled and satisfied the law of God so you can be accepted by him.
Notice the word, “belong”
Notice the word, “belong”
Everyone in this room belongs to either Adam or Christ.
Will synthesize,
Everyone in this room belongs to either Adam or Christ.
And Adam, is associated with death and Christ is associated with life.
And Adam, is associated with death and Christ is associated with life.
The Message of 1 Corinthians i. Its Consequences for the Future (15:20–28)
Paul is thus completely consistent in stressing both the union of believers with Christ in his death and resurrection, and the definite order
Everyone in this room belongs to either Adam or Christ.
v. 23,
24 After that the end will come, when he will turn the Kingdom over to God the Father, having destroyed every ruler and authority and power. 25 For Christ must reign until he humbles all his enemies beneath his feet. 26 And the last enemy to be destroyed is death. 27 For the Scriptures say, “God has put all things under his authority.” (Of course, when it says “all things are under his authority,” that does not include God himself, who gave Christ his authority.) 28 Then, when all things are under his authority, the Son will put himself under God’s authority, so that God, who gave his Son authority over all things, will be utterly supreme over everything everywhere.
23 But there is an order to this resurrection: Christ was raised as the first of the harvest; then all who belong to Christ will be raised when he comes back. 24 After that the end will come, when he will turn the Kingdom over to God the Father, having destroyed every ruler and authority and power. 25 For Christ must reign until he humbles all his enemies beneath his feet. 26 And the last enemy to be destroyed is death.
23 But there is an order to this resurrection: Christ was raised as the first of the harvest; then all who belong to Christ will be raised when he comes back.
1 cor 15:
24 After that the end will come, when he will turn the Kingdom over to God the Father, having destroyed every ruler and authority and power. 25 For Christ must reign until he humbles all his enemies beneath his feet. 26 And the last enemy to be destroyed is death.
Christ was raised first, then his people will follow, and then Jesus will defeat all of his enemies, ruling over them and the final one is death.
Jesus will turn over the kingdom to his Father after destroying all His enemies.
Outline?
This is the great enemy that all of us have to deal with!
The spiritual aspect of death was deltt with on the cross and resurrection.
No matter who you are, you have to face death. You can figure out ways to conquer fears, adversity, poverty, and even certain diseases. But eventually, you will die.
The physical will be when he returns.
But the death is also a spiritual death.
Both physical and spiritual were destroyed with the cross. However, the freedom from spiritual aspect we can experience now with new birth and the physical will be when he returns.
No matter who you are, you have to face death. You can figure out ways to conquer fears, adversity, poverty, and even certain diseases. But eventually, you will die.
27 For the Scriptures say, “God has put all things under his authority.” (Of course, when it says “all things are under his authority,” that does not include God himself, who gave Christ his authority.) 28 Then, when all things are under his authority, the Son will put himself under God’s authority, so that God, who gave his Son authority over all things, will be utterly supreme over everything everywhere.
Who is God?
Making All Things New
Making All Things New
When it is all said and done, God the Father will be supreme over everything. Meaning, there will be no more rebellion in the world.
What has He Done?
So if you are in rebellion towards God right now, that won’t be the case that day. You will bow. All of us will bow. And you will either be enjoying life with him forever, or death, which means separation from God forever.
22 Just as everyone dies because we all belong to Adam, everyone who belongs to Christ will be given new life.
Notice the word, “belong”
Everyone in this room belongs to either Adam or Christ.
And Adam, is associated with death and Christ is associated with life.
Conclusion
Conclusion
Who are we in light of that?
For those who are hoping in the savior, let me share with you your very real physical future,
In Paul's mind, there are two options: either Jesus is alive, or He is dead.
How should we now live?
51 But let me reveal to you a wonderful secret. We will not all die, but we will all be transformed! 52 It will happen in a moment, in the blink of an eye, when the last trumpet is blown. For when the trumpet sounds, those who have died will be raised to live forever. And we who are living will also be transformed. 53 For our dying bodies must be transformed into bodies that will never die; our mortal bodies must be transformed into immortal bodies. 54 Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die, this Scripture will be fulfilled: “Death is swallowed up in victory. 55 O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” 56 For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. 57 But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.
50 What I am saying, dear brothers and sisters, is that our physical bodies cannot inherit the Kingdom of God. These dying bodies cannot inherit what will last forever. 51 But let me reveal to you a wonderful secret. We will not all die, but we will all be transformed! 52 It will happen in a moment, in the blink of an eye, when the last trumpet is blown. For when the trumpet sounds, those who have died will be raised to live forever. And we who are living will also be transformed. 53 For our dying bodies must be transformed into bodies that will never die; our mortal bodies must be transformed into immortal bodies. 54 Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die, this Scripture will be fulfilled: “Death is swallowed up in victory. 55 O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” 56 For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. 57 But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.
If Jesus has truly been raised from the dead, then the gospel is true, and it is the most important message you have ever heard.
But if Jesus is still dead, then the gospel is false, and it is a very dangerous thing to believe, for it is a gross misrepresentation of who God is.
Show them how to make the banquet themselves
It’s important for this resurrection to be physical because then it shows that God is going to redeem all things spiritually and physically. So if we are physically resurrected, so will this broken earth. As we go, so will the Earth. So heaven is not going to be merely spiritual but also physical. We will be able to enjoy the beauties and wonders of creation without the brokenness of the fall and death ultimately looming over us.
David Platt Sermon Archive Because Resurrection Is Real
Think about it. No more dying of cancer or HIV. No more fatal car accidents. No more tsunamis. No more suicides. No more hunger and starvation. No more suffering. Death itself will no longer have any sting at all. For sin will have fully and finally been removed, and with it, disobedience to God’s law and death itself for all who have put their hope in the victory that comes through Jesus Christ alone.
Think about it, No more dying of cancer or HIV. No more fatal car accidents. No more tsunamis. No more suicides. No more hunger and starvation. No more suffering. Death itself will no longer have any sting at all.
What will we be like then?
Our resurrection bodies will be permanently like Christ. Think about him after he rose, he ate and drank, had conversations and laughed. We will be all that we should have been and much more. And yet, without sin. Without pain. Without aches. Without temptation. We get to be with Christ and our eternal family of God’s people forever on this redeemed earth. And it will NEVER END!
David Platt Sermon Archive Because Resurrection Is Real
Our resurrection bodies will be permanently Christ-like. This will happen spiritually and physically. That’s the whole point of what the Bible is saying here. Just as Christ was raised from the dead, so all who are in Christ will be resurrected to live. Just as Christ lives. Think about His body after He rose from the dead, and you have a good picture of what a resurrected body looks like. He ate and drank, spoke and laughed. People ask, “Will we even recognize one another’s resurrection bodies in heaven?” And Scripture is absolutely clear that our resurrection bodies will be recognizable. This is based first and foremost on the fact that Jesus Himself was recognizable in His resurrection body.
How shall we now live?
How shall we now live?
50 What I am saying, dear brothers and sisters, is that our physical bodies cannot inherit the Kingdom of God. These dying bodies cannot inherit what will last forever. 51 But let me reveal to you a wonderful secret. We will not all die, but we will all be transformed! 52 It will happen in a moment, in the blink of an eye, when the last trumpet is blown. For when the trumpet sounds, those who have died will be raised to live forever. And we who are living will also be transformed. 53 For our dying bodies must be transformed into bodies that will never die; our mortal bodies must be transformed into immortal bodies. 54 Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die, this Scripture will be fulfilled: “Death is swallowed up in victory. 55 O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” 56 For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. 57 But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.
You: What should you believe and do in light of this?
You: What should you believe and do in light of this?
1 cor 15:5-5
You: What should you believe and do in light of this?
You: What should you believe and do in light of this?
In Paul's mind, there are two options: either Jesus is alive, or He is dead.
In Paul's mind, there are two options: either Jesus is alive, or He is dead.
In Paul's mind, there are two options: either Jesus is alive, or He is dead.
If Jesus has truly been raised from the dead, then the gospel is true, and it is the most important message you have ever heard.
But if Jesus is still dead, then the gospel is false, and it is a very dangerous thing to believe.
But what we’re saying is that Easter is an event that intervened into history and changed everything.
There are some today who are preaching about Easter as a hopeful symbol of how the world should be. Their resurrection is symbolic and spiritual.
But what we’re saying is that Easter is an event that intervened into history and changed everything.
3 L’s
3 L’s
It’s important to simplify everything to this event. You must make a decision about Jesus’ death and resurrection!
Tim Keller is helpful here,
Sometimes people approach me and say, “I really struggle with this aspect of Christian teaching. I like this part of Christian belief, but I don’t think I can accept that part.” I usually respond: “If Jesus rose from the dead, then you have to accept all he said; if he didn’t rise from the dead, then why worry about any of what he said? The issue on which everything hangs is not whether or not you like his teaching but whether or not he rose from the dead.” That is how the first hearers felt who heard reports of the resurrection. They knew that if it was true it meant we can’t live our lives any way we want. It also meant we don’t have to be afraid of anything, not Roman swords, not cancer, nothing. If Jesus rose from the dead, it changes everything. - Timothy J. Keller, The Reason For God p. 200
Are you living in light of the resurrection? Or are you living like Jesus is dead?
For the skeptics in here, I can imagine some reasonable Objections
For the skeptics in here, I can imagine some reasonable Objections
What are the hang ups and theological ditches?
“Miracles are impossible.”
“Miracles are impossible.”
Philosophical Objections
Oftentimes, people will object at this point, saying things like:
“Miracles are impossible.”
“All other dead people have stayed dead.”
“Any naturalistic theory is more probable than a miracle.”
And I’d be happy to sit down and work through those potential objections. This sermon was not made to address everything but let me make a few points and we can go further on the mid-week podcast.
When I think about proving anything, I look for clues. No one evidence or point should be enough to convince us of Christ’ resurrection. But if you look at all the clues, collectively, it’s overwhelming. Here are a few. =
Clue 1: Suffering Apostles
Clue 1: Suffering Apostles
And I’d be happy to sit down and work through those potential objections. This sermon was not made to address everything but let me make a few points and we can go further on the mid-week podcast,
Clue 1: Suffering Apostles
Clue 1: Suffering Apostles
Now Paul is writing this and we can wonder if he’s just making all of it up.
Paul is claiming some crazy stuff and we can wonder if he’s just making all of it up?
The least we can say is that Paul really believed what he was saying.
look at v. 30.
Paul wasn’t just saying it without skin in the game. One of the most powerful evidences of the Resurrection is that every apostle who saw the risen Jesus suffered greatly and all but one were killed for their faith in the resurrected Christ.
Let me show you how much Paul believed in this event and then afterward we’ll look at why this is an evidence to the Resurrection, look at v. 30.
30 And why should we ourselves risk our lives hour by hour? 31 For I swear, dear brothers and sisters, that I face death daily. This is as certain as my pride in what Christ Jesus our Lord has done in you. 32 And what value was there in fighting wild beasts—those people of Ephesus—if there will be no resurrection from the dead? And if there is no resurrection, “Let’s feast and drink, for tomorrow we die!”
Paul wasn’t just saying it without skin in the game.
One of the most powerful evidences of the Resurrection is that every apostle who saw the risen Jesus suffered greatly and all but one were killed for their faith in the resurrected Christ.
Why do I say that the apostles suffering and death for Jesus is a powerful evidence for Jesus’ resurrection?
Well, we know that lots of people throughout history have died for different causes they believed in. We know of Muslim martyrs that will blow their bodies up in crowds of people because they truly believe they will be rewarded in heaven. However, we believe they’re mistaken.
And yet, what if we’re mistaken? Lots of people are. But you know the people who wouldn’t be mistaken?
The apostles. If anyone would know if Jesus truly rose from the dead, it would be the apostles because they were there.
We know of people who die for lies but we don’t know of anyone who dies for a lie they made up and the know is a lie.
Well, they made it up, some would say!
Why?
What gain?
Like I said, history shows us that all but one died gruesome deaths and lived impoverished lives.
All for a lie?
We know that before Jesus resurrection, they were scared and abandoned him. Something must happened that set the on a path to give their entire lives to tell others about the risen Jesus.
Another clue: The Emergence of the Early Church
Another clue: The Emergence of the Early Church
We see the early church explode onto the scene in Jerusalem, the very place Jesus was crucified. In a culture that was not looking and hoping for a resurrected messiah. Against all odds, Christianity arose and has spread throughout the world.
What could propel such a movement?
Good morals? promise of an afterlife? Lots of religions have that.
We can’t go into all the theories, but as i’ve looked at them, the most probable reason is that an event occured that changed the course of history! A resurrection!
Back to verse 21.
Let’s see one of the greatest victories and results of the resurrection of Christ.
The resurrection happened and that’s the best explanation of the suffering life and death of the apostles and the impossible emergence of the church.
The resurrection happened and that’s the best explanation of the suffering life and death of the apostles and the impossible emergence of the church.
Again, I’d be happy to sit down and work through potential objection and share more clues.
But no matter where you are at on the spectrum of objections and skepticism, all of us have to deal with two fundamental problem:
Sometimes people approach me and say, “I really struggle with this aspect of Christian teaching. I like this part of Christian belief, but I don’t think I can accept that part.” I usually respond: “If Jesus rose from the dead, then you have to accept all he said; if he didn’t rise from the dead, then why worry about any of what he said? The issue on which everything hangs is not whether or not you like his teaching but whether or not he rose from the dead.” That is how the first hearers felt who heard reports of the resurrection. They knew that if it was true it meant we can’t live our lives any way we want. It also meant we don’t have to be afraid of anything, not Roman swords, not cancer, nothing. If Jesus rose from the dead, it changes everything. - Timothy J. Keller, The Reason For God p. 200
However, you still have to deal with two fundamental problems facing everyone:
However, you still have to deal with two fundamental problems facing everyone:
What will you do with your guilt?
What will happen when you die?
The Timothy Keller Sermon Archive If Christ Was Not Raised (Easter)
The reason the gospel spread, the reason Christianity ever got off the ground was a bunch of people got together and said, “It happened. Somebody took on death single-handedly and won. We’ve seen him with our own eyes.” Do you see the hard edge of the gospel? The doctrine of the resurrection has never been a comforting symbol; it’s always been an in-your-face, in-your-teeth confrontation.
If you told me that your cousin Jeff died and rose from the dead, I wouldn't worship him. But when the disciples tell me that Jesus died and rose from the dead, I do worship Him. Why? What's the difference?
The difference is this: Jesus is the exact kind of person you'd expect God to be revealed through. He is not some random, unheard of person (no offense to Jeff). But His life is unique in a lot of important ways.
His life was anticipated for thousands of years.
His life fulfills ancient prophecies.
His life has impacted the entire world.
He claimed to be God in the flesh.
He said He came for our salvation (see point 2 above).
He said He came to show God's love, to be an example, and to sympathize with our suffering (see point 3 above).
His life was (supposedly) confirmed to be divine with a great miracle: the resurrection (see point 4 above).
Jeff meets none of these qualifications. Jesus, on the other hand, is the exact person you'd expect to be raised from the dead.
“No amount of ‘evidence’ could ever convince me that someone rose from the dead.” Well that's just silly :)
“Incredible claims require incredible evidence.”
What should they do after hearing this point?
And you have to reckon with the question, what if Jesus actually rose again? Because if he did, it changes everything.
Ground: How do we have power to believe and live this
Ground: How do we have power to believe and live this
The gospel answers both of these questions and more. The gospel promises those who turn from their sin, their control, and trust in Jesus that they’ll receive:
New slate (all is forgiven, guilt is removed)
New relationship (Peace with God)
New Future (relationship with him forever on this restored earth)
Gospel Invitation
Gospel Invitation
Maybe there’s some of you here who feel like you could never be forgiven from your past. That there are some stains that too dark to ever come out. Check this out,
9 For I am the least of all the apostles. In fact, I’m not even worthy to be called an apostle after the way I persecuted God’s church.
Before Jesus, Paul murdered Christians!
God’s grace is greater than any of your pasts.
His mercy is more than your sin.
His love is greater than your doubts.
Every one of us eventually have to deal with two giants in life. How are we going to deal with our guilt and what are we going to do about death? (I need to re-write that sentence)
Without the resurrection of Jesus, you have no hope!
On the other hand,
YET
The resurrection of Jesus is your only hope!
The resurrection of Jesus is our only hope.
If you want Christ, you can have him!
9 If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
13 For “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.”
We want every single person to be able to walk away with eternal hope.
We want every single person to be able to walk away with eternal hope.
Please talk with some of our members. We would love to dialogue further and pray with you.
David Platt Sermon Archive Because Resurrection Is Real
To every single person in this room, please hear this: Every single one of us in this room needs forgiveness before God, and every single one of us, deep down inside, even when we don’t think about it, realize it, or admit, needs to be restored to God, the One who made us and formed us and created us.
This is the deepest longing of every single one of our hearts, and God has made a way for this restoration to be a reality. He has sent His Son to die on the cross for our sins, and He has raised Him from the dead in victory over sin and death, and so I urge you, today, maybe for the first time, to trust in Jesus as the suffering Savior and risen Lord. There is no better, wiser, more secure, more eternally secure place to found your faith than in Jesus. And in Him, and only through faith in Him, you can stand forgiven before God. And Christian, you stand forgiven before God! Jesus was delivered over to death for our sins and was raised to life for our justification!
Please talk with some of our members.
Imagine: Corporate Dreaming
Imagine: Corporate Dreaming
What would we live like if we actually believed we were going to be raised again and have new life?
Jesus Conclusion: Glory in Christ as the Conclusion
Jesus Conclusion: Glory in Christ as the Conclusion
Let’s pray.
Exhort them by going back to the main point
50 What I am saying, dear brothers and sisters, is that our physical bodies cannot inherit the Kingdom of God. These dying bodies cannot inherit what will last forever. 51 But let me reveal to you a wonderful secret. We will not all die, but we will all be transformed! 52 It will happen in a moment, in the blink of an eye, when the last trumpet is blown. For when the trumpet sounds, those who have died will be raised to live forever. And we who are living will also be transformed. 53 For our dying bodies must be transformed into bodies that will never die; our mortal bodies must be transformed into immortal bodies. 54 Then, when our dying bodies have been transformed into bodies that will never die, this Scripture will be fulfilled: “Death is swallowed up in victory. 55 O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?” 56 For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. 57 But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ.
YET
The resurrection of Jesus is our only hope.
